Baishiya Karst Cave

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Baishiya Karst Cave, Paleontological cave in Xiahe County, China

This limestone cave stretches over 1 kilometer in length at the foot of a white cliff, with a 20-meter wide entrance portal.

In 1980, a meditating monk discovered the Xiahe mandible, which scientists dated to 160,000 years ago using uranium-thorium analysis methods.

The cave functions as a Tibetan Buddhist sanctuary near Trakkar Gompa temple, where monks practice meditation and pilgrims gather for prayers.

The cave maintains temperatures between 8 and 9 degrees Celsius during winter days, making it suitable for year-round exploration.

Scientists identified Denisovan DNA in this high-altitude location, marking the first discovery of these ancient humans outside Denisova Cave.

Location: Xiahe County

GPS coordinates: 35.44806,102.57139

Latest update: May 12, 2025 05:32

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